Viasat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT) has a new contract with United Airlines (UAL) to bring the firm's latest generation in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) system to more than 70 aircraft, including at least 58 of United’s new Boeing 737MAX aircraft.

Viasat will serve as the direct in-flight internet service provider to United, deploying its most advanced IFEC system, in order to provide United customers access to fast, reliable internet connections from the air. Viasat’s IFEC system will also power United’s Private Screening entertainment option, which offers customers access to hundreds of entertainment titles from its onboard library direct to their own devices.

Artistic rendition of the Viasat-2 satellite
Image is courtesy of Viasat.

United will tap into Viasat's advanced high-capacity Ka-band satellite system, which will include the ViaSat-1, ViaSat-2 and ViaSat-3 satellite platforms. These capacity-rich satellite platforms will enable Viasat to deliver fast, high quality in-flight internet service to each connected device on the aircraft. This technology will allow United to deliver dependable internet connections gate-to-gate and perform over-the-air content uploads to its onboard entertainment system, ensuring its library has the most current content available. Over the coming months, United will begin installing Viasat’s IFEC system on its airframes, demonstrating its commitment to the onboard customer experience.

Don Buchman, VP and GM, Commercial Aviation, Viasat, stated that the company is focused on optimizing customer satisfaction through great connectivity and entertainment. The firm's goal is to ensure United’s customers are fully connected and enjoying their onboard connectivity and entertainment experiences.